Daily Archive : Wednesday July 23, 2014

News

Lake in the Hills standoff ends peacefullyBy Susan SarkauskasResidents of a Lake in the Hills neighborhood were asked to stay inside for some of Wednesday afternoon, as police dealt with a suicidal man who had barricaded himself and his teenage son in a house on Deerpath Road.

4-year-old boy dies in Bensenville house fireBy Susan SarkauskasA 4-year-old boy hiding behind a dresser didn’t escape a house fire and died Wednesday afternoon in Bensenville despite the efforts of his mother, a neighbor, passers-by, police and firefighters. “Every minute seemed to be like 100 minutes,” neighbor Kathleen Barroso said of their efforts to get to Martin Pletz. “You are trying to do something. ... You’re only...

Investigations of Metra engineers on the rise for 2014By Marni PykeThe number of discipline cases involving Metra engineers for the first half of 2014 is 11 - the same total for all of 2013. The negative trend ... officials said. A look at problems over three years revealed speeding and signal violations plus a bathroom faux pas. “Some years you have relatively low numbers and some you have relatively high numbers," Metra Executive Director Don Orseno...

Will Des Plaines take away city employees’ cars?By Christopher PlacekDes Plaines Alderman Dick Sayad said Wednesday he thinks as many as eight city-owned take-home vehicles could be eliminated as part of an effort to cut costs — but isn’t going to make any formal proposal until more information is made available.

FAA lifts ban on U.S. flights to IsraelBloombergThe Federal Aviation Administration lifted its ban Wednesday on U.S. flights in and out of Israel, which the agency had imposed out of concern for the risk of planes being hit by Hamas rockets. The decision was effective at 10:45 p.m.

Thome’s hitting tips to Lisle kids: ‘Don’t get down on yourself’Marie WilsonWhen Jim Thome helped out Wednesday at a Bulls/Sox Academy baseball camp in Lisle, it wasn’t all about the kids. It was about their families, too, as the former White Sox designated hitter answered questions from parents like Tracy Swinford of Monee, who said her family attended the 2007 game when Thome hit his 500th home run, and wondered what it felt like for him. “It was almost...

Midways and monster trucks at DuPage County FairBy Miles DobisThe DuPage County Fair opened its five-day run Wednesday with hundreds of vendors, countless carnival rides, and plenty of performers and grandstand shows featuring monster trucks, rodeo cowboys and even a wine and beer tasting. The fair, which began 60 years as a small expo in Naperville, is expected to draw roughly 100,000 people this week as it continues from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. through Sunday...

Ocean crash kills teen pilot seeking world recordAssociated PressAn Indiana teenager who was attempting to set a record for an around-the-world flight was killed when his plane crashed in the Pacific Ocean, and crews were searching Wednesday for his father, who was also on board.

Images: Wednesday at the Lake County FairThe Lake County Fair opened on Wednesday, July 23 in Grayslake. Wednesday's events included 4-H demonstrations and judging, baking demonstrations, entertainment for kids, rides, games and food.

Glitch crashes global U.S. passport, visa operationsAssociated PressThe State Department’s global database for issuing travel documents has crashed, resulting in major delays for potentially millions of people around the world waiting for U.S. passports and visas, officials said Wednesday.

Giant wooden soldier taken down in St. CharlesBy Brian HillIf you have traveled north of St. Charles on Route 25 in the past 38 years, you’ve probably been greeted by a larger-than-life wooden soldier. That iconic, 25-foot-tall Revolutionary War soldier on Route 25 north of St. Charles was slowly dismantled Wednesday, taken in for repairs, before it's relocated to a new battlefront in Pingree Grove.

Arizona inmate dies 2 hours after execution beganAssociated PressA condemned Arizona inmate gasped and snorted for more than an hour and a half during his execution Wednesday before he died in an episode sure to add to the scrutiny surrounding the death penalty in the U.S.

40 bodies from jet solemnly returned to Dutch soilAssociated PressVictims of the Malaysian jetliner shot down over Ukraine returned at last Wednesday to Dutch soil in 40 wooden coffins, solemnly and gently carried to 40 identical hearses, flags at half-staff flapping in the wind. Even though they are still unidentified, the corpses that arrived on two military transport planes in Eindhoven were embraced by a nation unmoored by the loss of so many people caught...

U.S. pushes for truce as Gaza battle ragesThe United States announced signs of progress in cease-fire talks Wednesday, but prospects for a quick end to the fighting were dim as Palestinian families fled fierce battles in southern Gaza and the death toll rose to more than 700 Palestinians and 34 Israelis.

Senate panel backs McDonald for VA secretaryAssociated PressThe Senate Veterans Affairs Committee on Wednesday endorsed former Procter & Gamble CEO Robert McDonald to be the new secretary of Veterans Affairs.News: The panel’s unanimously vote came one day after a nomination hearing in which he faced no opposition. Senators said they are eager for McDonald, who grew up in Arlington Heights, to begin work at the beleaguered agency, which has been...

Fire season in West expected to get more intenseAssociated PressDespite widespread drought in the West and expectations of an above-average wildfire season, wildfires have burned less than half the 10-year average area so far this summer. U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell said Wednesday that largely has been a matter of luck, with the hot windy weather known as “red flag” days not lining up with the lighting strikes that start most fires,...

Hanover Park’s Craig to replace Mulder on Metra boardBy Marni PykeCook County commissioners picked Hanover Park Village President Rodney Craig to fill a vacant spot on the Metra board Wednesday. Craig will attend his first Metra meeting in August, replacing former Arlington Heights Mayor Arlene Mulder.

Carpentersville woman faces probation violation in stabbing death caseBy Harry HitzemanKane County prosecutors want a 23-year-old Carpentersville woman, given four years probation for her role in a 2010 stabbing death, to fulfill the terms of her sentence. Otherwise, Jacqueline S. Loyola, of the 2400 block of Tomahawk Court, could serve significant prison time. She was spared prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder while fighting an uninvited guest at her...

U-46 names new principals, administratorsBy Madhu KrishnamurthyThe Elgin Area School District U-46 school board this week appointed eight new principals, two associate principals and several program administrators for the upcoming school year.

Children’s event at Navy museumDaily Herald reportGreat Lakes Naval Museum hosts a “Float Your Boat” activity for children starting at 1 p.m. Saturday. The free event will allow children an opportunity to learn about buoyancy, ships and how things float, and then design and make their own pie-plate boat.

Survey asks Mt. Prospect residents about housing, development issuesBy Matt AradoThe village of Mount Prospect is asking residents to identify what they see as important needs in the village with respect to housing, roads, economic development and more. Results of the survey, which is available online and in print form at select locations, will be used when village leaders decide how to allocate future Community Development Block Grant funds.

Lake Zurich voters might decide if village gets home ruleBy Bob SusnjaraVoters might get to decide whether to grant Lake Zurich government home rule, which would provide village officials more local control over taxes and other matters. “We’re not looking to raise property taxes,” Mayor Thomas Poynton said. “We’re looking to generate some other sources of revenue.”

St. Charles police seek to define “intoxication”By James FullerAs St. Charles officials continue to try to get unruly bar activity in the downtown under control, the city’s liquor commission is forming its own definition of what it means to be intoxicated. The definition goes beyond the standard training bar tenders receive, giving police a bigger hammer to come down on tavern owners with.

Mundelein Explorers finish 3rd in national competitionDaily Herald reportThe Mundelein Police Explorer Post #184 recently earned third place for their performance at the 2014 National Law Enforcement Exploring Conference in Bloomington, Indiana. The team won in the “Burglary in Progress” event, and was the only unit from Illinois to place in any of the team events.

Cary Grove chamber hosts first fall festBy Madhu KrishnamurthyThe Cary Grove Area Chamber of Commerce will host its inaugural Cary Main Street Fest Sept. 27 and 28. The outdoor fall festival will feature local restaurants and businesses, a marketplace of vendors and artists, live entertainment and a children’s area. “We’re really excited about the launch of this event,” said Brad Ball, chamber executive director. “A street...

Buffalo Grove moves Night Out back to Willow Stream ParkDaily Herald reportBuffalo Grove is moving its annual National Night Out back to Willow Stream Park this year, scrapping earlier plans to hold the Aug. 5 event at Mike Rylko Community Park. The Night Out will feature free food, live music, a business expo, games and attractions for children, and interactive displays by the Buffalo Grove Police and Fire departments.

Menards gets final approval in Vernon HillsBy Mick ZawislakAfter nine months of review and several changes, a proposed two-story Menards home improvement center at Milwaukee Avenue and Gregg's Parkway in Vernon Hills has received official approval from the village. The final change requires the store's facade to be biege rather than the corporate green.

Illinois patients to docs: ‘What about marijuana?’Associated PressIllinois doctors, nursing homes, hospitals and hospice organizations are ramping up for their role as gatekeepers in the state’s new medical marijuana program. “It’s already an issue,” said Dr. Martha Twaddle of Barrington-based JourneyCare, which specializes in end-of-life care. “People are asking, ‘What about marijuana?’”

Lake forest preserve has job openingsDaily Herald reportLake County Forest Preserve District officials are looking to hire people for several open positions. A ranger police officer and a visitors services assistant are among the posts that need applicants.

Back to school comes early for some Dist. 59 studentsBy Christopher PlacekIt’s only July, but students at one Elk Grove Village school headed back to the classroom Wednesday. July 23 marked the first day of the 2014-15 school year for students at the Ridge Family Center for Learning, Elk Grove Township Elementary District 59’s K-5 year-round school.

Duran Duran suing Glenview-based fan club companyBy Jamie SotonoffThe 1980s pop band Duran Duran is suing a Glenview-based fan club management company, saying it breached its contract by not sending promised revenue to the band. The lawsuit, filed last Friday in Cook County circuit court, says Worldwide Fan Clubs Inc. agreed in 2010 to create and manage the band’s fan club.

Palatine hosts Arts in the Park on SaturdaySubmitted by the Palatine Park DistrictWhile another part of downtown Palatine rocks this weekend with the annual Rockin’ the Blocks fest, residents seeking a calmer cultural experience can head to nearby Towne Square for Saturday’s Arts in the Park event.

Downtown Palatine ready to rock at chamber festSubmitted by the Palatine Area Chamber of CommerceDowntown Palatine will rock this weekend as the Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Rockin’ The Blocks community block party featuring food, family fun and, as the name indicates, plenty of live music. The outdoor festival runs from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, and from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, at the corner of Brockway and Slade streets.

Geneva Arts Fair: an interactive gallerySubmitted by Jean GainesIf you want to know the story behind a piece of artwork before purchasing it, the Geneva Arts Fair offers many such opportunities.The fair, which runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 26-27, in downtown Geneva, will provide a venue for more than 155 artisans to sell their original work to thousands of art enthusiasts, while allowing patrons to meet and talk to the artists.

Naperville boutique holding event on Riverwalk to help Women At RiskBy Marie WilsonA Naperville boutique that supports international programs to get women out of prostitution and human trafficking is taking its cause to the Riverwalk on Saturday during a new, free event. WAR Chest Boutique is hosting the first Celebrate Hope event to introduce people to the shop’s mission, said Meggie Zayas, a WAR Chest volunteer who is organizing the event. “A lot of women through...

Plane crashes while landing in Taiwan, killing 47Associated PressA plane attempting to land in stormy weather crashed on a small Taiwanese island late Wednesday, killing 47 people and wrecking houses and cars on the ground. The ATR-72 operated by Taiwan’s TransAsia Airways was carrying 58 passengers and crew when it crashed on Penghu in the Taiwan Strait between Taiwan and China, authorities said. The plane was arriving from the city of Kaohsiung in...

Lombard preps for Civil War re-enactment in Four Seasons ParkBy Jessica CilellaVisitors at Sweet’s Civil War Re-enactment in Lombard this weekend will get a realistic glimpse at the state of the nation 150 years ago, from candlelight tours of Union and Confederate camps to visits with an embalmer, a laundress, a blacksmith and plenty of soldiers.

Bulls’ Gibson is happy Gasol is joining teamBy Mike McGrawTaj Gibson probably didn’t expect the Bulls’ biggest addition this summer to be another power forward, but he’s not sweating it. He's happy to see Pau Gasol join the team. “I think it’s a great addition to our team, gives us more depth,” Gibson said.

Clothing dryer sparks Streamwood house fireDaily Herald reportA fire that broke out in a first-floor laundry room left a Streamwood home with about $20,000 in damage, authorities said. Fire investigators pinned the cause on a clothing dryer.

Elgin charter school group to appeal U-46 rejectionBy Madhu KrishnamurthyThe group proposing an Elgin charter school says it will appeal Elgin Area School District U-46's decision to deny its charter application with the state. “We're going to be working with the Illinois Network of Charter Schools and an attorney,” said Kerry Kelly, vice president of the Elgin Charter School Initiative. “The INCS thinks we have a strong chance on appeal. We've...

Naperville rehab facility faces lawsuit over firing employee on leaveBy Robert SanchezA transitional care and rehabilitation services facility in Naperville is being sued by a federal agency for firing an employee who was on a medical leave of absence. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission claims in a lawsuit filed this week that Alden Estates of Naperville, Inc., violated federal law by terminating its admissions director before she was scheduled to return to work.

Northwest suburban police blotterBy Freida GadBurglars stole items valued at $16,347 between 3:30 and 8:25 p.m. July 12 at a home on the 700 block of Meadow Drive in Des Plaines. They removed the cover to a window well, forced open the window and stole men’s and women’s watches, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, a sterling silver bowl, three silk saris, a silk dress, a gift card, two wallets, a camera, safety deposit...

First Amendment fight won’t stop Arizona executionAssociated PressThe U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way for Arizona to carry out its third execution in the last year Wednesday following a closely watched First Amendment fight over the secrecy surrounding lethal injection drugs.Joseph Rudolph Wood, 55, was scheduled to be put to death at the state prison in Florence amid new scrutiny nationwide over lethal injections after several controversial executions.

Jury to reconvene in Ventura defamation caseJurors are due to reconvene in St. Paul to deliberate on whether a late famed military sniper defamed former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura in his best-selling memoir.The case went to the jurors midday Tuesday. They will resume deliberations Wednesday.

Two Ukrainian fighter jets downed by rebels near MH17 siteBloomberg News Separatists shot down two Ukrainian fighter jets in the same eastern region where Malaysian Air Flight MH17 was destroyed, the government said. Rebels downed two Su-25 fighters in the Donetsk region, Defense Ministry spokesman Oleksiy Dmytrashkovsky said by phone today. They were hit from a missile-defense system over the village of Dmytrivka. The pilots ejected and their whereabouts are unknown,...

4-day Comic Con festival kicks off in San DiegoAssociated PressLike Batman responding to a beaming Bat signal in the sky, fans are streaming to San Diego for the 45th annual Comic-Con pop culture extravaganza. The four-day festival celebrating film, TV, video games, comic books, costumes and other popular arts kicks off with a preview Wednesday night and goes full force Thursday at the San Diego Convention Center.

Ex-CEO gets prison for stealing from NYC charityAssociated PressThe politically connected former CEO of a prominent New York City charity has been sentenced to prison for helping to steal more than $9 million from the anti-poverty organization. William Rapfogel was sentenced Wednesday to a term of 40 months to 10 years. His wife and other supporters looked on as he was led out of court, uncuffed, to start serving his term.

Venezuelan conspiracy theories a threat to criticsAssociated PressRoderick Navarro was in class when he got the news that a high-ranking minister had accused him of plotting to assassinate Venezuela’s president. His first thought was, “Not again.” The 26-year-old student leader had already been accused by the ruling socialist party for collaborating with the U.S. to overthrow Venezuela’s then-leader Hugo Chavez in 2010.

Seniors use roommate-finding agencies to cut costsAssociated PressIt’s not exactly “The Golden Girls,” but for Marcia Rosenfeld, it’ll do. Rosenfeld is among thousands of aging Americans taking part in home-sharing programs around the country that allow seniors to stay in their homes and save money while getting some much-needed companionship. “It’s a wonderful arrangement,” said the white-haired Rosenfeld, who...

Typhoon rains hit China; plane crashes in Taiwan
Associated PressThe second typhoon to hit China in a week quickly weakened to a tropical storm as it reached the country’s heavily populated southeastern provinces on Wednesday after passing across Taiwan overnight.Rain was still falling in Taiwan as a plane crashed on its second landing attempt and caught fire, and Transport Minister Yeh Kuang-shih said 47 people were trapped and feared dead. Yeh was...

Immigrant children find support as others oppose sheltering themBloomberg News Officials from California to Vermont, reacting to images of immigrant children sleeping in crowded conditions, are offering them shelter even as fellow lawmakers, sometimes in the same state, oppose the move. As 1,000 Texas National Guard troops under orders from Governor Rick Perry move to secure the state’s border with Mexico, Dallas County is awaiting word on whether the federal...

1 dead, 2 injured by SW Fla. lightning strikeA lightning strike has killed one person and injured two others on Fort Myers Beach in southwest Florida.The Lee County Sheriff’s Office says a man was walking with a woman and another man Tuesday afternoon when the lightning bolt struck. The strike apparently killed him instantly. The other man and woman were taken to the hospital. Their conditions were not immediately available.

Skeletal remains found in Indiana wooded areaAssociated PressAuthorities say they’re trying to identify skeletal remains that have been discovered in a wooded area in Bloomington. Capt. Troy Thomas of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office tells The Herald-Times the remains found Monday on the city’s east side are believed to be those of a missing person whose case the office was working on.

Fourth suspect at large in Milwaukee shootingAssociated PressAuthorities are looking for a fourth suspect in a shooting on an interstate in Milwaukee County. Sheriff David Clarke says people in a minivan and another vehicle were shooting at each other in a “running gun battle” on Interstate 43 Tuesday afternoon.

Durbin to Putin: Take responsibility for crashAssociaated PressU.S. Sen. Dick Durbin has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to accept responsibility for downing a Malaysian Airlines jetliner over eastern Ukraine. Speaking on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday, the Illinois Democrat also said Putin should do what he can to ensure unfettered access to the crash site.

Rockford man charged in second killingA man accused of killing a high school friend was charged Tuesday in a second northern Illinois killing. Prosecutors in Illinois’ Lee County filed 12 murder counts against 36-year-old Terrence Doddy of Rockford in the July 1 death of 44-year-old Tonya Bargman. Other charges include robbery, concealment of a homicidal death and possession of a stolen motor vehicle and credit card.

2 Illinois gang members plead guilty to conspiracyTwo Illinois gang members have pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute drugs. The (Peoria) Journal-Star reports 26-year-old Aeiral Yarbrough and 24-year-old Deona White pleaded guilty in federal court Tuesday. They face up to 20 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute heroin, cocaine and marijuana.

Illinois college breaks ground on mining facilityA Saline County community college has broken ground on a simulated mine facility that will be used for education and competitions. Southeastern Illinois College received $220,000 from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Development to build the 12,000-square-foot facility. More than 1,000 miners go through the college’s training programs each year. Rescue teams will use the...

Lawyers: Factor court decision into pensions caseAssociated PressLawyers representing state retiree groups said Tuesday they aim to use a recent Supreme Court decision on health care benefits in an effort to expedite their case challenging Illinois’ pension legislation. Attorneys told Sangamon County Circuit Court Judge John Belz they’d be filing a motion asking him to factor the July 3 ruling, which could severely alter the state’s...

Wisconsin GOP files complaint over Trek adThe Wisconsin Republican Party filed a complaint Tuesday with the state elections board over a full-page newspaper ad by Trek Bicycle Corp., saying it amounts to an illegal contribution to Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mary Burke. She is the sister of Trek president John Burke. Their father started the company in the 1970s and Mary Burke previously worked there as a top executive.

Court endorses Illinois electricity surchargeAssociated PressIllinois regulators can force electricity customers to help pay for the $1.6 billion FutureGen clean-coal project, a state appeals court said in a ruling Tuesday. The 2-1 decision handed down by the Illinois Appellate Court OKs a state plan to charge electricity customers an estimated $1 to $1.40 a month to help pay for the long-delayed project. FutureGen would refit a western Illinois coal plant...

Quinn: Landfill’s PCB approval may be withdrawnAssociated PressPat Quinn believes approvals a central Illinois county gave to a landfill did not include the potential storage of toxic PCBs the facility’s owner now wants to store.If that’s true, Quinn spokesman Dave Blanchette said Tuesday that state law might allow the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to withdraw its approval of the plan to store toxic waste at the Clinton Landfill in...

Kerry cites progress in Gaza cease-fire talksAssociated PressOffering the first glimmer of hope for a Gaza cease-fire, the United States on Wednesday said negotiations to broker a truce between Israel and Hamas militants are making some progress even if an end to more than two weeks of bloodshed is nowhere near. “We certainly have made steps forward,” U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said in Jerusalem, where he was meeting for the second...

Iraq to vote on president after deadly bombingIraq’s parliament convened to vote for a new president on Wednesday as the extremist Islamic State group claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing in Baghdad the night before that killed 31 people, mainly civilians.

Unclaimed bicycles may go to Batavia charityBy Susan SarkauskasBatavia police may turn unclaimed bicycles over to a charity rather than sell them, under a proposal aldermen discussed Tuesday. The Batavia Bicycle Commission has asked for the bicycles, which would be refurbished and given to low-income children and adults.The proposal would apply only to bicycles valued at $100 or less.“It sounds like an excellent program,” City Administrator...

Filmmaker to document Barrington White House renovationBy Doug T. GrahamHundreds of people in the Barrington area have come together to support renovating the White House, the 116-year-old dwelling that represents the earliest days of Barrington. This week, organizers added a Hollywood filmmaker to the list. “I'm hearing of people dropping six figures helping this renovation,” Jeff Baustert said. “I would love to be able to do that, but this I can...

General: Guard to take observation role at borderAssociated PressMost of the 1,000 National Guard troops headed to the Texas-Mexico border will take up observational positions and detain people only if they interfere with their mission, a top general over the deployment said Tuesday. Texas Adjutant General John Nichols said the troops will help deter illicit traffic while U.S. Border Patrol agents deal with a record spike of unaccompanied minors entering the...

Images: Instagram at the Kane County FairFox Valley photo staff -- Rick West, Laura Stoecker, Brian Hill, and John Starks hit the Kane County Fair last weekend in St. Charles to document it using Instagram.

Hunt on for large, exotic snake in New Jersey lakeAssociated PressTraps have been set for a large exotic snake that animal control officers and a private reptile expert have been hunting for in New Jersey’s Lake Hopatcong. The New Jersey Herald reports that the state Department of Environmental Protection placed traps in the lake in northwest New Jersey on Friday. Spokesman Lawrence Ragonese says there haven’t been any confirmed sightings of the...

Sports

Summer fishing means battling the weedsBy Mike JacksonSome of the area ponds and even lakes have been suffering from an overgrowth of algae and heavy weeds. But some anglers have been able to score when working the open pockets, especially for big bluegills and largemouth bass.

Bears not about to rest on laurels during training campBy Bob LeGereOn paper it looks like this could be a great season for the Bears, who have accumulated a talented group of young and old players. But the difficult process of transforming paper to production and performance still remains, beginning with training camp practices which begin on Friday. “We've got to turn paper into performance and excellence,” Trestman said.

Fire thrashed by Earthquakes, 5-1Associated PressYannick Djalo scored a goal and added three assists to lead the San Jose Earthquakes to a 5-1 win over the Fire on Wednesday night.San Jose (5-8-5) ended a five-game winless streak in which it scored two goals. Chicago (3-5-11) had allowed just three goals in four games.

Joliet Catholic stops Prospect’s summer surgeBy Dick QuaglianoSummer ended a day to soon for Prospect. Joliet Catholic’s Drake Fellows had a two-out single to left in the bottom of the seventh to eliminate the Knights 3-2 in the semifinals of the Lawler Summer Classic on Wednesday at Benedictine University in Lisle.

Major happenings in the Cubs minors By Bruce MilesWhile it's been hard to look at the Cubs much of this season, the minor leagues have been must-follow. A pair of key prospects earned promotions this week, and team president Theo Epstein talked about it Wednesday.

Hawkeye dominates Illinois Open...againBy Len ZiehmLake Forest resident Brad Hopfinger held off Medinah teaching pro Travis Johns to win the biggest tournament of the year for Illinois residents, the Illinois Open. Finishing the 54-hole competition with a 71 in winds that gusted up to 28 miles per hour, Hopfinger posted a 6-under-par 210 to claim a $13,500 first prize.

Upon return, Sox figure to look a lot differentBy Scot GregorWith the nonwaiver trade deadline coming next week, beat writer Scot Gregor wonders how different the White Sox' roster will look when they return home from a seven-game road trip. The Sox (48-54) wrapped up their homestand Wednesday with a 2-1 loss to the Royals.

Konerko says Thomas was always ‘dialed in’By Scot GregorAs Frank Thomas prepares to enter the Hall of Fame on Sunday, former White Sox teammate Paul Konerko raved about all the work Thomas put in and his ability to make adjustments and avoid lengthy slumps.

Olt takes news of demotion well By Bruce MilesCubs president Theo Epstein and manager Rick Renteria said third baseman Mike Olt took well the news that he had been sent to Class AAA Iowa after Tuesday night's game. Olt batted .139 and struck out nearly 40 percent of the time with the Cubs this season.

NBA player seeks tips on suspect in aunt’s deathAssociated PressLos Angeles Clippers forward Matt Barnes is asking for the public’s help to track down the man police say killed his aunt in Northern California.Barnes took to his Twitter and Instagram accounts Tuesday, asking anyone who knows the whereabouts of 51-year-old Michael Williams of Sacramento to call police.

Playful Pole wins Tour stage, as Nibali marches onAssociated PressOn the last of four Pyrenees ascents, Rafal Majka winked at a French TV camera and tugged playfully at a motorcycle’s antenna.Even this late in the Tour de France, the Polish rider made winning look easy as he took Stage 17 on Wednesday.For Vincenzo Nibali, the second ride in the mountains on France’s border with Spain was more serious. “The Shark” nibbled yet more seconds away from several of his closest challengers, and the yellow jersey that he’s worn for all but two days of this race seemed to fit just a little more tightly ahead of Sunday’s race finish in Paris.

Broncos owner giving up control due to Alzheimer’sAssociated PressEven as dementia began to rob him of some of his fondest memories over the past few years, Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen reported to work every day to oversee multimillion-dollar upgrades to the team’s training facilities and roster.So his absence from Dove Valley headquarters on Wednesday as players reported for physicals on the eve of training camp was as jarring as the announcement that the 70-year-old Bowlen was giving up control of the team because of Alzheimer’s disease.

White Sox drop ball in 2-1 loss to RoyalsAssociated PressMike Moustakas scored the tiebreaking run in the top of the ninth inning when White Sox catcher Tyler Flowers couldn’t handle a throw home and the Kansas City Royals beat the Sox 2-1 Wednesday in the rubber game of a three-game series.

With Gasol on roster, Gibson likes Bulls’ chancesBy Mike McGrawTaj Gibson probably didn’t expect the Bulls’ biggest addition this summer to be another power forward, but he’s not sweating it. Gibson spoke briefly to the media Wednesday during his youth basketball camp at the Joy of the Game Center in Deerfield. The sixth-year forward made it clear he’s happy to see Pau Gasol join the Bulls.

Business

U.S. economy, though sluggish, may now be sturdierAssociated PressOut of a seemingly hollow recovery from the Great Recession, a more durable if still slow-growing U.S. economy has emerged. That conclusion, one held by a growing number of economists, might surprise many people. As the economy has slowly healed, analysts say it has replaced some critical weaknesses with newfound strengths.

S&P 500 ekes out record high as earnings roll inAssociated PressThe stock market eked out a record high Wednesday, as investors weighed positive earnings from the technology industry against disappointing news from Boeing and other companies. Biotechnology stocks were among the largest gainers. Among big tech names, Apple’s earnings topped Wall Street expectations, helped by rising shipments of iPhones. Microsoft also announced results that beat forecasts.

Aurora-based meat supplier in scandal has global reachAssociated PressIt isn’t a household name, but the company that’s at the center of a food scandal in China helps make some of the world’s most popular foods, including the Big Macs and Quarter Pounders served at McDonald’s locations. OSI Group, a privately-held company based in Aurora, was thrust into the spotlight this weekend when a Chinese TV station reported that one of its Shanghai plants repackaged old beef and chicken and slapped new expiration dates on them.

Illinois outlook cut to negative by S&P on deficit concernsBloombergIllinois, the lowest-rated U.S. state, had its outlook dropped to negative on Wednesday by Standard & Poor’s, which cited the prospect of budget deficits and questions over whether pension overhaul measures will survive legal challenges.

China detains employees of Aurora-owned meat sellerAssociated PressFive employees of a company accused of selling expired beef and chicken to McDonald’s, KFC and other restaurants in China were detained by police Wednesday after an official said illegal activity was an organized effort by the supplier. China’s food safety agency said on its website that its investigators found unspecified illegal activity by Husi Food Co., which is owned by an Aurora-based company, but gave no confirmation expired meat had been found or other details.

European agency urges airlines to avoid Tel AvivAssociated PresidentThe European Aviation Safety Agency says it “strongly recommends” that airlines refrain from operating flights to and from Tel Aviv.The recommendation by Europe’s main aviation safety body came after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration told U.S. airlines they are prohibited from flying to Israel’s Ben Gurion airport for 24 hours following a Hamas rocket explosion nearby.EASA’s statement Tuesday didn’t name a similar timeframe, but it said the agency would “monitor the situation and advise on any update as the situation develops.”European airlines including Lufthansa, Air France and Alitalia say they have already suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns.

Judge nixes lawsuit over Empire State Building IPOAssociated PressThousands of onetime investors in the Empire State Building can’t sue over claims they were shortchanged by the deal that turned the iconic skyscraper into a public stock, a judge has ruled. The aggrieved stakeholders — people who had held Empire State Building shares that were sold privately in 1961 — had said they lost more than $400 million in potential profits when the managing owners rebuffed interested private buyers in order to sell public shares in the building immortalized in “King Kong” and “Sleepless in Seattle.”

Despite sanctions call, UK approves arms to RussiaAssociated PressBritain is still authorizing the export of arms and military equipment to Russia despite the government’s call for tough sanctions over Moscow’s arming of separatist rebels in Ukraine, a group of lawmakers said in a report Wednesday.A group of legislative committees that oversee arms export controls said there are 251 export licenses in place for sale of goods worth at least $225 millio to Russia. The report did not detail actual exports, simply the licenses.

Boeing boosts 2014 forecast as jetliner deliveries reach recordBloomberg NewsChicago-based Boeing Co. raised its full-year profit forecast as the world's biggest planemaker reaps gains from faster production that is driving jetliner deliveries to record levels. Earnings for 2014 excluding some pension expenses will be in a range of $7.90 to $8.10 a share, Boeing said today, compared with a previous projection for $7.15 to $7.35. Second-quarter profit on that basis of $2.42 a share beat the $1.98 average of 20 analysts' estimates compiled by Bloomberg.

Putin's Ukraine woes compounded by $103 billion Yukos claimBloomberg NewsRussia will discover next week how much it may be asked to pay for the confiscation a decade ago of Mikhail Khodorkovsky's Yukos Oil Co., then the country's biggest oil producer. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague will rule on July 28 on a $103 billion damages claim the company's former owners filed against Russia in 2007, Tim Osborne, head of GML Ltd., former holding company of Yukos, said by e-mail. Court official Willemijn van Banning said by phone she couldn't comment on the date for the ruling.

Ebay plans Russia growth with fast delivery amid U.S. sanctionsBloomberg NewsEBay Inc. plans to expand in Russia, speeding up cross-border delivery and allowing local merchants to sell goods on its website, Vice President Wendy Jones said. Russia has been and remains “number one priority” for geographical expansion of EBay Marketplaces, Jones told reporters in Moscow today. Recent U.S. sanctions against Russia shouldn’t affect the San Jose, California-based company’s growth plans in Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, she said.

The long-term joblessness battle isn’t overBloomberg Newso far this year, the U.S. has made great progress in reducing long-term unemployment. Hopefully, the success won’t undermine proper efforts to resolve what remains a serious threat to the country’s prosperity and social cohesion.Long-term joblessness is a curse. It is a major contributor to poverty and the hollowing out of the middle class. The longer it persists, the harder it is to solve -- both because the long-term unemployed find it harder to get jobs and because the resulting erosion of productive capacity complicates the challenge of stimulating economic growth without fueling inflation and asset bubbles.

Apple hints new products near with bigger iPhones loomingBloomberg NewsApple Inc. signaled that the long wait for new products is nearing an end. With bigger-screen handsets in development, Apple said yesterday that shoppers are delaying buying new iPhones, which will weigh on sales in the current quarter ending in September. Yet rather than dissuade buyers from procrastinating, Apple stoked anticipation for new devices on a conference call, with Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook talking about an “incredible pipeline” that “we can’t wait to show you,” and finance chief Luca Maestri declaring it would be a “very busy fall.”

Northrop Grumman raises year’s forecast as profit tops estimatesBloomberg NewsNorthrop Grumman Corp., the maker of Global Hawk drones, topped analysts’ profit estimates in the second quarter and boosted its full-year forecast. Net income rose 4.7 percent to $511 million, or $2.37 a share, in the quarter, from $488 million, or $2.05 a share, a year earlier, the company said today in a statement. The average estimate of 20 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg was $2.22 a share.

Delta air’s quarterly profit tops estimates on domestic demandBloomberg NewsDelta Air Lines Inc. posted second- quarter profit that beat analysts’ estimates as the U.S. carrier benefited from strong domestic demand. Earnings excluding some items were $1.04 a share, the Atlanta-based company said in a statement today. The average of 17 estimates compiled by Bloomberg was $1.03. Revenue rose 9 percent to $10.6 billion.

Elgin assisted-living facilities break ground By Elena FerrarinTwo new nursing and rehab facilities are being built in Elgin and are expected to open sometime next year. Elgin Memory Care, a nursing and personal care facility at Shannon Parkway and Daisy Lane, should be completed by next summer; Addison Rehabilitation and Living Center, a skilled nursing facility at 1760 Capital Street, might be done by early next year. Both are on Elgin's west side.

Life & Entertainment

Music Notes: Handsome Family, Death Cab to rock Hideout partyBy Matt AradoIf you're looking for a less-crazy rock festival this summer, checkout the annual Hideout Block Party, featuring the Handsome Family and Death Cab for Cutie among others. Plus, hard-rockers Black Stone Cherry will unlease its guitar-based attack in Libertyville this weekend.

Creamy curd a glorious way to use rhubarbBy J. Bryan LowderCurd is one of those dishes that should take on the flavors of the season, so we’ll leave the classic lemon aside (except for two brightening and custard-stabilizing tablespoons) and instead take advantage of the last of the rhubarb crop, which is just finishing its run in the farmers markets of many parts of the country.

Summer sausage roll gets a triple dose of fennelBy Alison LadmanFennel loves fat. That’s why fennel seeds are such a common seasoning in sausages. They contribute a mildly peppery, fresh flavor that cuts through the delicious heaviness of the rich meat.

Rhubarb Curd
Keep a jar of Rhubarb Curd on hand, and you'll never be caught by a guest (or by your own sweet tooth) unprepared, no matter the day or time.

Kitten’s debut album is synth heavenAssociated PressThe debut album from rising band Kitten will have you purring. The Los Angeles-based group’s self-titled release is full of synth pop anthems, dance jams and punk-rock tracks that mesh together seamlessly.

Energized Lady A brings new up-tempo songs to Aurora showBy Kristin M. HallThe title for Lady Antebellum's forthcoming new album, “747,” refers to a hook in the title song about how a commercial jetliner can't go fast enough for a man trying to reclaim his love. It's also a fitting analogy for the country trio's own super-sonic momentum over the last year. Lady Antebellum plays RiverEdge Park in Aurora on Thursday, Aug. 7, as part of the band's most recent tour. “We are just so excited for the opportunity to just continue to build our career,” Hillary Scott said.

Live CBS event marks 50 years of civil rightsAssociated PressA CBS News event Thursday marking the 50th anniversary of civil rights legislation is both a look back at history and a glimpse into future business opportunities for a broadcast news division. The live program, “CBS News: 50 Years Later, Civil Rights,” moderated by Bob Schieffer, features civil rights activist Harry Belafonte, U.S. Rep. John Lewis, actress Whoopi Goldberg and others. It will be shown at 7 p.m. on the Smithsonian Channel and CBSNews.com, with Microsoft adding an interactive element allowing viewers to express opinions.

Coroner: Heroin overdose killed Peaches GeldofBy Jill LawlessModel and TV personality Peaches Geldof died from a heroin overdose after relapsing from a battle to give up the drug, a British coroner ruled Wednesday. Coroner Roger Hatch said 25-year-old Geldof took a fatal dose of high-purity heroin shortly before she was found dead at her home south of London on April 7.

No romance for ‘Downton Abbey’ in-laws, actors sayAssociated PressMichelle Dockery and Allen Leech of “Downton Abbey” say Cupid’s arrow is not headed for their characters. While talking to a TV Critics’ panel Tuesday, the actors said they find it “very funny” some fans are hoping for a romantic pairing for in-laws Lady Mary Crawley and Tom Branson.

Swift, Coldplay set for iHeartRadio festivalAssociated PressTaylor Swift, Coldplay and One Direction are part of the star-studded lineup for this year’s iHeartRadio Music Festival. Clear Channel announced Wednesday that Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, Iggy Azalea and Ed Sheeran will also perform at the festival, to be held Sept. 19-20 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Russell Westbrook: Basketballs and baskets of clothesBy Mesfin FekaduGo shopping with powerhouse basketball player Russell Westbrook — whose colorful style has made headlines outside of sports — and you'll probably be surprised by his favorite section: the sale rack. The Oklahoma City Thunder star player says he's not going to buy the most expensive clothes just because he can afford it. “I may look at it, see how much it costs and then decide if I'm going to get it or not.”

Check your magnolia trees for signs of scales By Tim JohnsonThis is the time of year to check closely for magnolia scale, which can stress a magnolia tree and cause an overall thin condition. The scale insect is about the size of a pencil eraser and is typically found on the underside of magnolia tree branches.

Fresh approaches to fresh blueberriesBy J.M. HirschHow do you handle a seasonal abundance of blueberries? As long as you’re willing to consider a few fresh approaches, it’s actually easy and delicious to press them into service. Start by ditching the idea that they only work in sweets.

'Charlotte's Web' proves child's play for young castBy Megan SwindellThe classic children's story “Charlotte's Web” is adored by both kids and adults, and the director for the production at The Broadway Playhouse in Chicago has taken that to heart by casting kids as key characters. “I definitely had some eyes bulging when I said that I wanted young people to play certain roles,” said Emerald City Theatre director Ernie Nolan. “Having young people in the cast as well as adults has been inspiring.”

Deadline extended for Cook of the Week Challenge applicationsBy Deborah PankeyOn the fence about entering the 2014 Cook of the Week Challenge? We've extended the deadline to midnight Monday, July 28, so you have the weekend to think it over. Maybe joining Food Editor Deborah Pankey at the Bull Burger Battle Saturday in Carol Stream will provide some inspiration.

‘Weird Al’ on his weirdly successful week in musicBy Nicole EvattAttention pop stars: If “Weird Al” Yankovic shows up at your concert or has tracked down your personal email address, you’re likely his next parody conquest. Such was the case for artists like Pharrell and Iggy Azalea, who are covered by Yankovic on his latest album, “Mandatory Fun,” released last week.

Lean and lovin’ it: Fat does not make us fat. Really.By Don MauerIt’s all been a big fat, supersized lie. And what bother’s Don Mauer most is that he helped perpetuate it. New research shows that saturated fats might not be unhealthy and fat does not makes you fat.

Discuss

Editorial: What’s really at stake in the furor at CODThe Daily Herald Editorial BoardA Daily Herald editorial says the controversy that has erupted at College of DuPage has as much to do with vested interests as it does college President Robert Breuder’s email to the board.

A fight for Israel’s existenceBy RICHARD COHEN Columnist Richard Cohen: Israel is the legal creation of the United Nations. It has an absolute right not merely to exist but to do so safe from rockets or incursions by tunneling terrorists.

Extended runway would give citizens nothingA Wheeling letter to the editor: Mr. E. Allan Englehardt’s recent common-sense Guest View about the Chicago Executive Airport should be heeded by the CEA commission and the elected officials of Wheeling and Prospect Heights. These two towns, which own the airport, derive no income from its operations except for the taxes paid for gasoline it sells.

In heinous cases, death penalty appropriateA Des Plaines letter to the editor: This is a problem that is short and simple. A person has been found guilty of stabbing a family member in the face and chest; also, the daughter is sliced in many places. To me the death penalty is the proper solution.

Attempt to poison dog was dangerous, cowardlyA Hawthorn Woods letter to the editor: An open letter to a coward in Hawthorn Woods: So, you think it is an acceptable act for you to pepper someone's yard with mothballs, some hidden away in meat.

Tea Party embarrasses nationA Huntlet letter to the editor: David Pinter pointed out that spending $100 million on a presidential library in Illinois is a waste since Illinois can’t provide “basic services.” I agree, the Obama Library should be privately funded. The last thing the library needs is to have Republicans, who have done everything possible to discredit the president, controlling its funding, location, size or content.

Why no change in this legislature?A Naperville letter to the editor: After more than 35 years of the same people running the legislature, the state of Illinois is nearly bankrupt. We have the lowest credit rating among all 50 states. We have billions of dollars in unfunded pensions for teachers and other government employees

‘Giver’ reminds us of power of painBy Michael GersonColumnist Michael Gerson: In 1993, Lois Lowry wrote a slim book for youth about totalitarianism, euthanasia, suicide, sexual awakening and infanticide. "The Giver" created a blooming genre -- the dystopian youth novel -- and considerable controversy.